Khap Panchayats part of old traditions: Haryana CM

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday said Khap Panchayats have been part of old traditions and playing a crucial role in 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao' government programme for the girl child.

"The Khap Panchayats (caste councils) are part of our old traditions and they have always been a significant contributor in resolving social issues," he said.

Addressing a felicitation function organised by the Sarvjatiya Kandela Khap at Kandela village in Jind district, Khattar said even today the 'khaps' are playing an important role in redressing public grievances as well as strengthening the feeling of brotherhood.

"However, time and again many misconceptions are spread about the 'khaps' that they are unconstitutional bodies but I have always been saying that old tradition of our society is contained in the Khap Panchayats."

The chief minister said the Khap Panchayats not only announce decisions but also convince the people.

He thanked the Khap Panchayats for their cooperation and playing a leading role in the Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao programme.

Referring to the compensation for the damage to the crops caused by untimely rains, he said, the state has disbursed a compensation of about Rs.1,100 crore among the affected farmers.